The new CUPRA Formentor

Interior

If you’ve spent any amount of time in SEAT's latest models the Formetor’s interior will look familiar. It has a dark ambience with plenty of black materials punctuated by CUPRA's signature bronze trimmings. These surround the trio of air vents as well as the wheel-mounted badge and multi-function controls.

With its pricier performance specification, the quality of materials used throughout is like a top-spec SEAT model, so the build quality and premium feel is top notch. Meanwhile, the floating central screen is bright and easy to use, while the digital cockpit elevates the cabin further.

Exterior

Many manufacturers have tried to make SUVs look sporty with varying degrees of success, but there’s no denying CUPRA has nailed the aesthetic of the Formentor. It has the traditional chunky SUV look, but the front end narrows into the angular grille and, coupled with the narrow headlights, give an imposing, aggressive face.

There are also plenty of sharp creases in the bodywork that accentuate its width, while the bronze theme continues on the outside with the alloy wheels. There are also black side skirts and wheel arches that add a rugged edge to this sporty model.

Technology

As is expected of high-specification models these days, the Formentor comes packed with the latest technology, both in the cabin and with regards to safety equipment. The dashboard is home to a 12-inch infotainment system, which can be controlled one of three ways – either through touch, voice or gesture control. It’s also connected wirelessly to Apple CarPlay or through a wired Android Auto connection, meaning you can control your smartphone safely while driving.

The driver assistance and safety feature are plentiful, and include a predictive adaptive cruise control system that used GPS data to slow the car for corners if necessary, blind spot detection and exit assist.

Performance

While CUPRA models have typically used powerful petrol engines, the Formentor will also be available with a plug-in hybrid variant. This uses a 1.4-litre petrol engine and an electric motor with a 13kWh battery that provides a combined 242bhp and 400Nm of torque with an electric range of 31 miles.

The petrol option is a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit making 306bhp and 400Nm of torque, with a four-wheel drive system for improved grip. Both engines have a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and come with four drive modes: Comfort, Sport, CUPRA  and Individual.

Trim levels

There are two UK trim levels for the CUPRA Formentor; VZ2 and VZ3. Both come with a TSI 4Drive Petrol engine producing 310PS with a 7-speed DSG-automatic gearbox.

Standard features on the Formentor VZ2 include:

• 19 inch 'Exclusive' machined sport matt black and silver alloy wheels
• Black Nappa leather interior
• Gloss black roof rails
• LED headlights and tailights with dynamic turn signals
• Rain sensor wipers
• Full Link smartphone integration
• 12 inch navigation system
• CUPRA Sport pedals

Standard features on the Formentor VZ3 include:​

• 19 inch 'Exclusive' copper and black alloy wheels
• Black Nappa leather interior
• Gloss black roof rails
• LED headlights and tailights with dynamic turn signals
• Rain sensor wipers
• Full Link smartphone integration
• 12 inch navigation system
• CUPRA Sport pedals

CUPRA Formentor paint options:

Non-metallic (No extra Cost)​:​

• White 

Metallic (£555):

• Magnetic Tech Grey
• Midnight Black
• Urban Silver

Premium Metallic (£800):

• Graphene Grey
• Desire Red
• Dark Camouflage

Matte finish (£1,800):

• Magnetic Tech Grey
• Petrol Blue